Traffic Accidents

When the Road Turns Dangerous: Understanding Your Legal Rights After an Accident

In Tennessee, traffic accidents happen every day—from high-speed collisions on I-40 to devastating pedestrian accidents in Nashville and Memphis crosswalks. In a matter of seconds, your life can change. Physical pain, emotional stress, lost income, and medical bills quickly pile up.

What Counts as a Traffic Accident?

Traffic accidents involve motor vehicles on public or private roads and can include:

• Car-to-car collisions
• Truck or semi-trailer accidents
• Motorcycle crashes
• Pedestrians or bicyclists hit by vehicles
• Municipal or company-owned vehicle collisions
• Accidents involving Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare services

Each case brings its own set of legal challenges. Our attorneys are skilled in navigating Tennessee traffic laws and determining liability so that you can focus on recovery.

Your Legal Protections Under Tennessee Law

Tennessee law holds negligent drivers accountable—whether they ran a red light, drove distracted, or ignored speed limits. However, Tennessee’s modified comparative fault system means that if you are 50% or more at fault for the accident, you cannot recover any compensation.

Key Legal Facts You Should Know:

• Deadline to File (Statute of Limitations): You typically have 1 year to file a personal injury claim in Tennessee.
• Insurance Requirements: Tennessee requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance ($25,000/$50,000/$15,000).
• Reporting Requirements: Accidents involving injury, death, or property damage over $1,500 must be reported to police.
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Not required but highly recommended, as Tennessee has one of the higher rates of uninsured drivers.

For a deeper dive into legal responsibilities and coverage, visit our pages on car accidents or motorcycle accidents.

What If the Driver Was On the Job?

If the at-fault driver was working at the time of the accident—such as delivering packages, driving a rideshare passenger, or operating a company vehicle—you may be entitled to a commercial insurance claim. Under Tennessee’s vicarious liability rules, employers can be held legally and financially responsible for their employee’s actions behind the wheel. These cases often involve larger insurance policies and more complex negotiations, making experienced legal representation essential.

If you were hit by a commercial or truck vehicle, don’t wait. Evidence can disappear fast.

What To Do After a Crash: Protecting Your Health and Your Claim

The steps you take immediately after an accident can impact your health, your finances, and the outcome of your legal case. Here’s what you should do:

1. Get Medical Attention: Even minor symptoms may indicate serious injuries.
2. Call the Police: File an official report for documentation.
3. Document the Scene: Take photos and video of all vehicles, injuries, and the surrounding area.
4. Exchange Information: Get driver’s licenses, insurance, and contact info.
5. Find Witnesses: Their statements can support your claim.
6. Be Cautious With Insurance Adjusters: Avoid detailed statements until you’ve consulted an attorney.
7. Watch for Delayed Symptoms: Some injuries, like brain trauma or internal bleeding, may appear days later.
8. Act Quickly: Tennessee’s one-year statute of limitations means time is critical.

Tennessee’s short deadline makes it crucial to seek legal help immediately after an accident.

Tennessee’s Modified Comparative Fault System

Tennessee follows a modified comparative fault system with important implications:

• If you’re less than 50% at fault, you can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault
• If you’re 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any compensation
• Insurance companies will try to assign you maximum fault to reduce their payments
• Having legal representation helps ensure fault is allocated fairly

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Tennessee law allows accident victims to pursue financial compensation for a wide range of losses. Depending on your injuries and the circumstances of the crash, you may be able to recover damages for:

• Emergency medical care and ongoing treatment
• Lost wages and reduced future earning capacity
• Long-term disability or disfigurement
• Vehicle repair or replacement
• Pain and suffering
• Mental and emotional trauma
• Additional expenses such as transportation, mobility aids, or home care

Every case is different. A free consultation with an AskLitigation attorney can help you understand what your claim may be worth—and how to maximize it.

Special Considerations for Tennessee Accidents

Rural vs. Urban Accidents

Tennessee’s mix of rural highways and urban areas creates unique challenges:

• Rural accidents may involve delayed emergency response
• Urban accidents often have more witnesses but complex traffic patterns
• Highway speeds increase injury severity

Weather-Related Accidents

Tennessee weather can create hazardous driving conditions:

• Ice storms and snow in winter months
• Heavy rainfall causing hydroplaning
• Fog conditions in mountainous areas

Tourist and Out-of-State Drivers

Tennessee’s tourism industry means many accidents involve out-of-state drivers:

• Different insurance coverage limits
• Jurisdictional complications
• Service of process challenges

Get the Help You Need Today

If you’ve been involved in a traffic accident in Tennessee, don’t face the aftermath alone. The experienced legal team at AskLitigation is ready to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and take the first step toward recovery and justice.

Remember: Tennessee’s one-year statute of limitations means every day counts. Don’t delay in protecting your rights.

Types of Traffic Accidents We Handle in Tennessee: